unioncatalogus

The union catalog is a shared catalog of bibliographic records that represents the holdings of multiple libraries. It serves as a consolidated database, allowing users to search for resources across the collections of participating institutions simultaneously. This eliminates the need for individuals to search each library's catalog independently, streamlining the discovery process for books, journals, and other materials.

Union catalogs are instrumental in interlibrary loan (ILL) services. By identifying which libraries possess a requested item, they facilitate the borrowing of materials from one institution to another. This expands access to resources for patrons, particularly for specialized or rare items that may not be available at their local library.

The creation and maintenance of union catalogs are typically managed by consortia of libraries, library networks, or national library agencies. These entities collaborate to aggregate and standardize bibliographic data from their member libraries. The complexity and scope of a union catalog can vary significantly, ranging from regional collections to comprehensive national databases. Technological advancements have enabled the development of increasingly sophisticated and user-friendly union catalog interfaces, often accessible online. They are a fundamental tool for resource sharing and promoting broader access to information within the library community.